NafisaEverton are gearing up for a crucial summer as The Friedkin Group aims to make a strong impact.
Since taking charge a few months ago, the club’s new owners have made a solid start, adopting a measured approach that has proven effective so far.
Their most significant move to date has been the appointment of David Moyes, a decision made after Sean Dyche informed them of his departure. While they were initially willing to give Dyche more time, they acted swiftly to bring Moyes back—a move that has already shown promise.
Moyes is expected to have substantial funds available for transfers this summer, with PSR no longer a pressing concern. As part of their recruitment strategy, Everton have set their sights on an exciting young talent.
Everton eyeing Joel Ordonez but face competition from Aston Villa
According to Alan Nixon via his Patreon, Everton are interested in signing Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez.
The 20-year-old has been making waves with the Belgian club, having debuted for the first team in 2023. This season, he has gained valuable experience by playing every minute of Brugge’s 10 Champions League matches, leading the tournament in clearances with 57.
With Brugge still in the competition, Ordonez will have the chance to showcase his abilities against Aston Villa in the Round of 16, giving Unai Emery a closer look at the highly-rated defender. Villa are reportedly ‘desperate’ to sign him and have placed a £40 million valuation on the player, meaning Everton could face stiff competition. However, Everton are believed to be preparing a strong bid of their own.
Ordonez has also established himself on the international stage, earning four caps for Ecuador since making his debut last year.
Ordonez compared to Antonio Rudiger
The summer transfer window could be pivotal for Ordonez, as several clubs are now monitoring his progress.
Everton are in need of defensive reinforcements, with Michael Keane set to leave once his contract expires. That would leave Jarrad Branthwaite, Jake O’Brien—who has been playing at right-back—and James Tarkowski, who is now 32, as their remaining center-back options.
Ordonez could be a major addition to the squad, with comparisons already being made between him and Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger.
Respected Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig, who has a large following on X, previously described Ordonez as a ‘complete and dominant’ defender, noting similarities to Rudiger. Kulig highlighted his strengths in pace, power, tackling, anticipation, bravery, athleticism, and heading ability.
In January of this year, Kulig reiterated his praise, stating that Ordonez possesses a ‘complete profile’ for his age. With more experience under his belt, the young defender may now be ready for the next step in his career beyond Club Brugge.
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